cuts expire for the wealthiest americans. >> i would be very much opposed to raising tax rates but i do believe we can close a lot of loop holes. >> reporter: democrats say just closing loop holes and limiting deductions is not enough to make a dent in the nation's $16 trillion deficit. >> you've got to raise additional revenues, including tax rates on the wealthy. those have to go up. they have to go up. >> reporter: but many republicans believe the best way to close the gap is reform entitlement programs like social security and medicare. democrats aren't on board yet. >> my concern about raising that medicare retirement age is there will be gaps in coverage or coverage that's way too expensive for seniors to purchase. >> reporter: and with the fiscal cliff looming, white house economists are warning shoppers concerned about a tax increase pay not spend as much this holiday season. danielle -- nottingham, cbs news. >>> investors are worried the strong start to the holiday shopping season may not last. right now, let's take a look at the dow. it's down nearly 60 points at this hour.